I was stoked to photograph Refinery29’s Chicago’s April street-style slideshow featuring shoe stalking pics from around the city. Check out the rest of the gorgeous kicks here!

Although the Louboutins above weren’t included in the final cut I thought Lauren Chu’s (fashion blog: ldotcdot) taste in footwear deserved to be recognized. I know I rip on Louboutins often, and this has everything to do with my taste (or some might consider lack thereof). You know the crude saying about opinions… Anyway, I prefer understated shoes to complement an outfit; most Louboutins are obnoxious and selfishly keep eyes focused on themselves, detracting from the clothing above. Complex shoes walk a fine line… that’s the end of the bad jokes, I promise! Some women have a passion for ostentatious shoes, which I respect. To each their own. It’s just not for me and my personal style! Although you know I totally love to photograph them.. let’s be real here.

Click here to see the rest of Lauren’s sleek, dark look for the ultimate in black palette perfection. I myself own a pair of Louboutin Simple 85 pumps, which I consider to be the perfect heel. I bought mine in 2007, as a junior in college at Michigan State, and I wore them to class all the time. Of course, I spent the whole time sitting (duh), so let’s not pretend that’s a great feat. Semi-annual visits to Brooks have kept these babies in great condition, but the time is nearing for me to purchase a new replacement pair.  Quiet, comfortable (for a heel), and that sexy flash of a red sole makes the most boring Louboutins the greatest ones of all.